About 60% of the world’s population has curly hair. However, not many people know the proper
steps that they should be taking to have healthy curls.
Types of curly hair
There are four broad different types of curl patterns. These categories are wavy (type 2), curly
(type 3), coils (type 3), and kinky (type 4). Then there are sub-sections to determine how tight
your curls are in your broad section.
For example, actress Zendaya’s curl pattern is 3a since her curls are on the looser side, while
actress Yara Shahidi’s curl pattern is 3c since her curls are tighter. Even though they both have
type 3 curls, their hair looks drastically different.
To figure out what your curl type is, you can look at a chart that has examples of different types
of curls, take quizzes, or ask your hairstylist. It is also extremely common to have more than one
curl pattern.
Products that should be focused on
With curly hair, the most important thing is to make sure that your hair has lots of moisture and
hydration. This is because curly hair is naturally dryer than straight hair. Without the correct
amount of moisturization, the curls can look fizzy and appear to be a different hair type.
When 10th Grader Arianna Roman was asked what step she thinks is the most necessary to a
curly hair routine, she said “The most necessary step I feel like is applying my creams with my
hair wet because it makes them more defined.”
People with curly hair should use a deep conditioner once or twice a week. The best ones to use
are Olaplex No. 8 Moisture Mask, Pattern Intensive Conditioner, Jessicurl Rockin’ Ringlets
styling potion, and Kinky-Curl Knot Today Natural Leave-in/Detangler.
When Roman was asked what her favorite curly hair products were, she said, “Miss Jessies
because they are for all curl types, and they make them really soft and bouncy”
Products to Avoid
When looking for curly hair products, looking at the ingredients is key. Many products contain
sulfates, silicone, drying alcohol, and parabens which all damage curly hair. These products
cause buildup, strip the curls of moisture, and cause curls to be frizzier.
Some of the common brands that use these harmful ingredients are Pantene, Head & Shoulders,
TRESemmé, and L’Oréal Paris. This doesn’t just go for hair styling products, the same harmful
ingredients are also found in shampoos and conditioners.
It is so important to do research when taking care of your hair, Taking the right steps can make
or break a curly hair routine.
